Camping World

Camping World is a leading name in the world of recreational vehicles and outdoor living, with a strong presence across the United States. Established in 1966 in Bowling Green, Kentucky, it started as a small store serving camping enthusiasts. Over the years, it has transformed into a national leader in the RV retail sector. As of November 2025, Camping World operates over 185 stores in 42 states, with its headquarters located in Lincolnshire, Illinois.

The company specializes in selling both new and used RVs and offers a wide range of services, including maintenance, repair, and collision services. Beyond RVs, Camping World provides a comprehensive selection of camping gear and outdoor accessories. Its Good Sam Club enhances the customer experience by offering roadside assistance, insurance, travel planning, and exclusive discounts to RV owners. Additionally, Camping World has a strong online presence, enabling customers to shop for products and services through its e-commerce platform.

A pivotal moment in Camping World's history was its initial public offering in 2016, which fueled its expansion through acquisitions like Gander Outdoors and other specialty retailers. This approach has reinforced its status as a major player in the specialty retail market, focusing on both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

In recent years, Camping World has been actively expanding into underserved markets, particularly in the Midwest, Southeast, and Sunbelt regions, with plans to surpass 200 locations by 2026. Its strategy includes acquiring independent RV dealerships and rebranding them, which has helped cement its reputation as a dominant force in outdoor recreation retail.

For commercial real estate stakeholders, Camping World represents a stable and reliable tenant. Its large-format stores, strategic locations with highway visibility, and ability to draw regional traffic make it an attractive option for high-profile retail corridors and redevelopment projects. The company's commitment to long-term leases and its role as a destination retailer underscore its value as a partner for landlords and developers.